Two Exciting Developments Happening Now on Billings' West End

What are they building behind the new Costco in Billings?

Spring is popping in the Magic City, and with it are construction projects across the city. One large retail project is underway on a plot directly south of Costco at 3880 Zoo Dr in Billings. And rumors are circulating about what's coming to the former Rio Sabino's at Shiloh Crossing.

The former Rio Sabina's location in Billings. Credit Michael Foth, TSM/Canva

First, Rio Sabina's... Here's what we've heard.

Rio Sabina's closed in 2023 and was put on the market for $2.7 million. I peeked in the windows and took some pics at the time and pondered what might go in next. It's a great location in one of the busiest shopping hubs in Montana.

It's essentially confirmed that a restaurant, bar, and casino called J's Pub and Grill is moving into the former Mexican restaurant's location. Expect a refresh to the building.

We glanced at the menu at the J's Pub and Grill in Casper, WY, and if the Billings location is a duplicate, we can expect steaks and chops, seafood like lobster mac, salmon, and fish n chips, and other popular tavern foods like burgers and salads.

Johnson Restaurant Group (JRG) has several restaurants in South Dakota, Wyoming, and Montana, including brands like Old Chicago, Fire Rock, Wyoming Ale Works, and Johnny J's Pub and Grill.

Construction is underway south of Costco by Pierce RV. Credit Michael Foth, TSM

A new Tractor Supply is going up behind Costco.

Crews have been busy on a Tractor Supply Co. store going up near the new Costco on Zoo Drive. I feel like this will be a great location for the farm/ranch/western lifestyle store, which currently has a location in Laurel and in the Heights.

Far more than a farm store, I enjoy Tractor Supply. It's kind of like a blend of Shipton's, Ace Hardware, and Western Ranch Supply. Recently, I was at the Laurel Grand-Reopening for its new garden center. If I were to guess, the under-construction West End location will have a garden center too. Tractor Supply Co. has nearly 2,300 stores in 49 states.

H/T Billings, MT as She Was and Is

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Five of the Biggest Waterfowl in Montana

I fake my bird knowledge.

When we happen to spot a tall bird wandering in a marshy area, I'll say to my spouse, "Look! There's a loon!" but it could very well be a crane.

Like most Montanans, I can recognize bald eagles, wild turkeys, robins, Canadian geese, a few types of ducks, etc., but most of the time when we see a big, unusual-looking bird on our adventures, I'm lost.

90% of the time, I'm probably incorrect. If you're like me, perhaps this article will help you identify five of the biggest waterfowl you'll see in Montana.

Gallery Credit: Michael Foth